Traffic Safety 101: Best Practices for Pedestrians

Numbers from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicate that traffic accidents and road mishaps account for the eighth leading cause of death amongst individuals in recent years. Statistics show 1.25 million people are killed in vehicle crashes every year, with at least 4,300 dying each day in car accidents.

If these numbers and trends continue, then traffic accidents are poised to soon be the seventh most leading cause of death around the world. About half of those killed in these accidents are not drivers or passengers in vehicles, but what the WHO terms “vulnerable road users,” which includes pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcycle users.

Vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death for young persons between the ages of 15 to 29 years old. Given the alarming rate of deaths when it comes to car accidents, it surely does seem a bit discouraging to be on the roads given these statistics. It doesn’t mean, though, that you should completely stay away from roads and never to go outside your house. Accidents can happen to anyone, and it’s important to at least know how to practice safety as a pedestrian to increases your safety in a dangerous world. Here are some things you can do to accomplish this.

Know your route well. If you’re commuting, chances are you have a preferred way of travelling, and a lot of factors come into play. Aside from price and distance, do consider just how traffic operates in that area as well. If you know the area is prone to accidents, consider taking an alternate route home. Try to get to know various shortcuts around places you regularly go so you always have an alternative if things get a bit hairy.

Remember to follow traffic rules and regulations. There are signs, signages, and signals for a reason; they’re not just for display. Traffic signs are sometimes complicated and frustrating, but you should do your part and observe them. Make sure you’re aware which traffic signs should be followed and why you should follow them. This allows you to have a better grasp on your safety as a pedestrian.

Remember rules and regulations reserved for drivers, especially in relation to you as a pedestrian. Knowing what drivers are supposed to do in your presence will make you extra aware of what you should do on your end to make sure they get to follow rules properly. Remember, drivers are obliged to exercise a duty of care for people around them, but you have the same rights and responsibilities as well.

Keep yourself visible at all times. Remember, when it comes to ensuring your safety as a pedestrian, drivers will have to know where you are. This means you have to be able to wear clothes that aren’t only visible, but vibrant as well. Choose to add brighter colored clothes and neon clothing to your fashion and wardrobe, especially when you’re commuting. These allow light to be reflected easier and be more noticeable even in dim light. However, be sure to practice walking and crossing the roads on pedestrian lanes that are brightly light so you can be easily seen.

Consider insurance. Sometimes, you really don’t know what will happen to you, and the best form of protection comes in the form of assuring yourself that you’re safe no matter what happens. Insurance can do this for you. If you don’t have any yet, consider getting coverage for car accidents or other forms of vehicle accidents so you know that you don’t necessarily have to spend an exorbitant amount of money to keep yourself safe.

Remember that when it comes to following traffic regulations, it’s always a safe bet to make sure you’re very aware of what specific signs and signals are for, and that you also understand where, when, and how they are used. Knowing these things will definitely increase your level of safety and protect you against the dangers of everyday traffic. Click here if you’re in need of legal options.